Ayanami

Ayanami is a Japanese name written with the kanji 綾波. It can function as a surname or, less commonly, as a given name. The characters convey a imagery of “woven waves” or “twilled waves,” reflecting a common practice in Japanese naming of combining kanji with natural or seasonal associations.

The best-known bearer in popular culture is Rei Ayanami, a fictional character in the anime series Neon Genesis Evangelion (1995–1996) and its film adaptations. Rei is one of the main pilots of Evangelion Unit-00 and is portrayed as calm and enigmatic, playing a central role in the series’ narrative. The prominence of Rei Ayanami has made the surname widely recognizable among anime fans and in broader media discussions.

Beyond Rei, Ayanami appears as a surname for various characters in Japanese media and, less commonly, for real individuals. Its use as a surname in contemporary Japan remains relatively uncommon, but the name’s cultural association with Evangelion has contributed to its visibility in popular culture, translations, and fan communities.